Hoodies sell out in Tonga as El Niño brings wintry chill

Better known for its warm weather and beaches, the archipelago in the south Pacific ocean usually sees winter temperatures in the range of 18C to 21C

Robert Okatri, manager at general merchadise store Narottams, said he has seen an uptick in sales of thermo-flasks, electric kettles and heaters, blankets and clothes. File picture

Tonga is bracing for more chilly weather as the Pacific nation shivers through one of its coldest winters ever, sparking a rush for jackets and heating units.

The island has experienced unusually cold weather through July and Tonga Meteorological Services (TMS) recorded a low of 9.3 degrees Celsius at the Lapaha village weather station at the end of the month. The country’s record low of 8.7C was set in September 1994.